Trauma suffered under any circumstances is difficult to deal with and to process, but trauma suffered in combat or in the military can often be more complicated, mainly because of the military culture, the context of the trauma, and the isolation experienced when re-acclimating to the civilian world.  

Although I have never served in the military, I’m the daughter and niece of many who have, including World War II and Vietnam veterans. Even my mother was a WAC (Women’s Army Corps) from 1942-1945.

My father was a career Army non-com and I grew up on an Army base at Ft. Bliss, Texas, so I understand the culture from the point of view of a dependent and the sacrifices made by the veteran as well as the family members.